Comedian Greg Davies stops off at animal centre near Wem

The Shropshire-raised celebrity, who has appeared in a string of TV shows and is one of the country’s most sought-after comics, has become one of Grinshill Animal Rescue Centre’s most famous supporters.

Greg, who was born in Denbighshire, but grew up in Wem, visited the centre near the town on Tuesday.

Posting on the centres’ Facebook page, Kate Aspinall said: "Had a lovely visit from our patron Greg Davies this afternoon. Also great to see him and he got lots of doggy cuddles!"

As well as becoming nationally known for this comedy, Greg also appeared in the BBC family history show Who Do You Think You Are?

Jenny Martinez, who helps run the animal centre, said: "He was in the area, his family still live in Wem, and he came for a play and a walk.

"He is very much a doggy person and he is actually looking for a dog. We said we would keep an eye out for him.

"He quite fancies one of our dogs, Jimmy, who is like a labrador but with short legs. But unfortunately Jimmy is not quite the best fit. Greg obviously has a busy lifestyle and would need someone to look after Jimmy. He could do with a dog a few years older."

Mrs Martinez said they were delighted to have Greg as their patron.

"We wanted someone local and we were a fan of Greg anyway. We thought of him and we emailed him.

"He came for a visit and we sent him away to have a think about it.

"We then heard back saying he would be honoured to be patron.

"We are ver pleased. He is a very nice man," she added.